Newcastle boss Keegan jumps to the defence of striker Smith

Kevin Keegan has urged Newcastle supporters to lay off Alan Smith. The striker is at the centre of a row between club owner Mike Ashley and manager Keegan.

The former wants to sell, the latter does not and Smith is unhappy about a potential move to Everton.

The player was jeered when he came on as a second-half substitute in Newcastle's 2-1 victory against Valencia on Saturday and mocked when a weak shot went wide.

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Backing: Smith has the support of his manager

'I'm not telling this crowd what to do but he's a Newcastle player,' said Keegan. 'What happens in the future, you will be the first to know. He may not be the best player on the pitch but no one will try harder.'